We hope you're doing well and had a pleasant Easter and Passover, despite the situation we find ourselves in. It's been a couple of weeks since our last post and, as you know, the Covid-19 pandemic continues to be an ever-evolving issue. We know that everyone is being bombarded with news about the virus but we do have a few important, local updates to share.
Ottawa Public Health (OPH) Information- OPH has distributed a letter to Community Associations which helps clarify who should be tested, guidance for people who need to seek care about where to go, helping children cope during the pandemic, physical distancing for parents, teens and children, support for older adults as well as others, guidance on physical distancing, and maintaining positive mental health. Councillor Leiper has posted it on his website. You can find it here:https://kitchissippiward.ca/content/oph-letter-community-associations
- Text and online chat service available 7 days a week from 8:30 am to midnight.
- Safe, encrypted technology ensures conversations are confidential and secure.
- Trained counsellors provide advice, referrals and support in English and French.
Chat online unsafeathomeottawa.ca
Community Support- The Champlain Community Support Network, including Ottawa West Community Support, are helping seniors in Eastern Ontario in a variety of ways including grocery and pharmacy delivery, Meals on Wheels, telephone safety checks, transportation and dementia support. To learn more:
https://communitysupport.covidresponse.ca/
Construction- Although some construction work is still being allowed to continue, the Elmdale Public School Addition and Renovation as well as the Rosemount Library renovation have been deemed non-essential and the projects have been put on hold until further notice. We are waiting for more information on the status of the Scott Street Sewer and Watermain Rehabilitation Project and will post an update when available.
Parks and Recreation Facilities- As you must know by now, City parks and recreation facilities have been closed until at least June 30. All parks are closed except for walk-throughs which means you can only walk, run or bike through the park. By-law officers have been ticketed those who do not comply. To learn more:https://ottawa.ca/en/health-and-public-safety/covid-19-ottawa/impacted-city-facilities-and-services#city-parks-and-amenities-are-now-closed-walkthroughs-permitted-only
Shopping Etiquette- Ottawa Public Health has developed a great infographic with tips on how best to ensure you and store staff's safety when shopping for essentials. You can find it here: http://kitchissippiward.ca/content/shopping-etiquette-advice-oph
Cleaning up the Capital- To add to the growing list of cancelled events, this year's Clean up the Capital has been cancelled and Ottawa Public Health states that no clean ups should be undertaken off your property.
Coffee House Discussions- In case you haven't heard, Ottawa Architect Rosaline Hill have been hosting Coffee House Discussions related to Ottawa's Maturing Neighbourhoods. The discussions are now being delivered over Zoom. The next one is on Walkable Neighbourhoods on April 16th. For more details: https://www.rjhill.ca/coffee-house-discussion-series
Stay Safe. Stay at Home. Save Lives.
